Effects of reservoir rock pore geometries and ultrasonic parameters on the removal of asphaltene deposition under ultrasonic waves

Recent advances of ultrasound applications in the oil and gas industry

In the last two decades, ultrasound (US) technologies research has increasingly earned attention for applications in the oil and gas industry. Numerous laboratory and field research have proven ultrasonics as an efficient, sustainable and cost-effective technology for improving well productivity. This paper pursues the elaboration of a comprehensive review of the most recent research related to ultrasonic technologies for applications in the oil and gas industry. Statistical analysis of different functional categories and classification of the research publications were performed. Considering the research reviewed, there is a huge gap between numerical and field studies in comparison with the numerous laboratory studies, deeming it necessary to increase efforts on developing mathematical and numerical models and field-testing cases of the ultrasonic effect. A comprehensive review of the ultrasonic waves' mechanisms of action for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and emulsification/demulsification was conducted. Despite the lack of consensus regarding the mechanisms, cavitation and thermal effects on wellbore fluid and formation rock have been widely accepted as two of the most influencing mechanisms. A compilation of the state-of-the-art research of numerical, laboratory and field studies in the last two decades was assembled. Most authors agreed that ultrasonics is a highly efficient method for EOR and emulsion treatment if the optimal conditions are identified and achieved. The development of screening criteria for the application of ultrasonic waves was recommended, as this technique and the same parameters should not be utilized for all reservoir types. Treatment with ultrasound waves has shown improvement of oil recovery efficiency rates of over 90% and viscosity reduction values over 80%. The most efficient results were observed when in combination with another conventional EOR method, where ultrasound boosts recovery efficiency. Potential new applications related to rock mechanics and additional research topics were also recommended.

The Utilization of Ultrasound for Improving Oil Recovery and Formation Damage Remediation in Petroleum Reservoirs: Review of Most Recent Researches

The ultrasound method is a low-cost, environmentally safe technology that may be utilized in the petroleum industry to boost oil recovery from the underground reservoir via enhanced oil recovery or well stimulation campaigns. The method uses a downhole instrument to propagate waves into the formation, enhancing oil recovery and/or removing formation damage around the wellbore that has caused oil flow constraints. Ultrasonic technology has piqued the interest of the petroleum industry, and as a result, research efforts are ongoing to fill up the gaps in its application. This paper discusses the most recent research on the investigation of ultrasound’s applicability in underground petroleum reservoirs for improved oil recovery and formation damage remediation. New study areas and scopes were identified, and future investigations were proposed.